What to Pack for a Trip to Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a small country with a wide array of climates, which can be tricky to pack for. It’s important to consider where all you’ll be traveling in Costa Rica when preparing and packing. This packing list will help you remember all the important stuff for your trip to Costa Rica!
From incredible scenery to unparalleled wildlife to the vibrant culture, Costa Rica is a destination you will want to make the most of.
But before you start your incredible Costa Rica adventure, it’s important to know what you should bring with you. Packing correctly can be the difference between a hassle-free vacation and an uncomfortable experience.
This guide will cover the essentials that you should bring to have an amazing time in Costa Rica!
Things to Pack for a Costa Rica Vacation
Are you looking to get the most out of your trip to Costa Rica? Knowing what to pack for your trip can be a daunting task – there are so many options! Read on to find out exactly what you should pack for your Costa Rica vacation.
Clothing to Pack for Costa Rica
Casual clothing – You’ll want to keep your clothing casual, comfy, and cool, especially if you’re staying by the beach. Costa Rica has heavy humidity, so you’ll want something lightweight and quick-drying, especially if you plan on exploring the rainforests. If you’re planning on visiting a city, you can pack some nicer outfits. A water-proof jacket may be necessary even during the dry season.
Bathing suit – You’ll have plenty of opportunities to hit the water with all of Costa Rica‘s coastline, volcanic hot springs, and adventure excursions of white water rafting and waterslides. Pack something you wouldn’t be afraid to get dirty in a mud bath.
Flip Flops and Water-Friendly Hiking Shoes – Flip flops and sandals are perfect for the beach and the pool. But when you go to the mountains and the rainforests, you’ll want something sturdier, and you wouldn’t want to lose a flip flop ziplining through the trees or riding horseback down the mountain. Hiking shoes and sneakers can keep out Costa Rica’s giant ants and other biting insects. During the rainy season or hiking in muddy areas it’s best to have waterproof shoes.
Whether you’re visiting Costa Rica for 5 days or just a couple, you’ll want to make sure you have the right clothing!
Essentials to Pack for Costa Rica
Sunscreen, Sunglasses, Sun Hat – Sunscreen is more expensive in Costa Rica, so you’ll want to pack as much as you’ll need. Since Costa Rica is so close to the equator, the sun is very strong and you’ll want all the protection you can get. You don’t want to be caught without sun protection when you need it.
Bug Spray – Mosquitos are bad year-round and are worse during the rainy season. And with the added threat of Zika, you’ll want to make sure you are always protected. You’ll especially want bug spray when you’re hiking the rainforests and at dusk.
Waterproof Bags – Keep your wet and muddy stuff away from the rest of your clothes while out on your day trip or when you repack to go home. A waterproof backpack or waterproof bags are great to have for shoes and bathing suites.
Related: The Ultimate Beach Vacation Packing List
Top Costa Rica Tours
With so much to see, Costa Rica can be overwhelming for any first-time traveler. To take some of the stress out of planning your visit, opt for a guided tour! Check out this list of the top Costa Rica tours to help you make the most of your time in this beautiful Central American country.
- Arenal Volcano Full-Day Combo Tour with Lunch and Dinner
- Surf Lessons in Tamarindo, Costa Rica
- Full Day Waterfall Adventure
Where to Stay in Costa Rica
Find the perfect place to rest your head on your visit to Costa Rica, from the top rated accommodations to unique stays you can’t get anywhere else.
- Where We Stayed: Occidental Papagayo
- Top Hotel: Tulemar Resort
- Great Value: Volcano Lodge, Hotel & Thermal Experience
- Unique Stay: Arenal Observatory Lodge
More Costa Rica Travel Tips
Make the most of your trip to Costa Rica, whether it’s a honeymoon or a regular vacation. Check out these travel tips and itineraries:
Ready to visit Costa Rica? Plan your trip with these tips.
- Book your flight: Find the cheapest flights using Skyscanner, my favorite flight search engine.
- Find accommodation: You can find top hotels and honeymoon resorts in Guanacaste, Costa Rica using Booking.com.
- Book your tours: Make the most of your honeymoon by booking amazing tours in Costa Rica.
- Get packing: Make sure you’ve packed everything you need with my packing list resources.
Cheers!
Paige
What do you pack for a Costa Rica vacation? Share your packing tips below!
